Liquid Diet For Dogs With Megaesophagus

Individual dogs may do better with kibble canned or liquid diet because of altered swallowing or motility related to their disease.

Liquid diet for dogs with megaesophagus.

Regurgitation is the most common sign of megaesophagus. If dogs are fed by mouth they should feed in an upright position and remain in that position for up to 20 minutes after a meal to allow gravity to assist the movement of food and liquid into their stomachs. Megaesophagus may be genetic especially if seen in puppies. Megaesophagus is a disorder in which the esophagus dilates and loses motility.

A dog may lower its head to allow the food to slip out with little warning. If an animal inhales the food or liquid from the esophagus into the lungs this can cause aspiration pneumonia thought to be the most serious complication of this disorder. You can also switch out dry food with a liquid food which is easier to digest. To care for a dog with megaesophagus try elevating the dog s food bowl several inches off the floor which can help dry food and kibble go down more easily.

There are two types of megaesophagus. Special measures need to be taken by a dog owner to ensure a dog with megaesophagus is still able to eat and retain its food or this issue can be fatal due to side effects of the disease process. When all else fails a permanent feeding tube can be inserted into the dog s stomach through which owners can administer food and water. This is best accomplished by training dogs to use a bailey chair.

Dilation of the esophagus can often be diagnosed by.